Alair Homes
Having work done on your house is challenging, often expensive, and a real struggle if you’re not on the same page as your contractor. That’s why it’s crucial to meet with the person, or persons, who will do the work before construction begins.
Here are 10 things you should discuss before the work starts:
1. Working hours
Have a clear understanding of your London-area construction company’s work hours – will they work whether anyone is home or not? Will they work evenings and weekends?
2. Experience
Make sure that your contractor has knowledge and experience in the project at hand. Ask about similar jobs they’ve completed.
3. What about insurance?
A true professional is bonded and insured, which keeps everything covered financially. An old rule of thumb says that they should have enough insurance to rebuild your home if needed. In short, liability insurance is a must. A reputable company like Alair Homes London will have full insurance.
4. Contact information
Get a full list of contact information, including phone numbers, for the contractor and the main on-site contact person. Make sure he or she has all of your contact information, as well, including information for an emergency person when you’re not available.
5. Will others be involved in the work?
Some portions of the work, such as plumbing and electrical, may need to be sub-contracted out to others. You’ll want to meet with those sub-contractors before work begins, as well.
6. The length of the project
Make sure that you get an estimate of how long it will take to complete the job. This estimate should be established in the contract because contractors may underestimate the length of the project. You don’t want to be charged extra for the job’s completion.
7. Site protection
One of the most important parts of a pre-project meeting is to discuss where site protection will go so that it’s understood the location of the construction zone. It will give you an idea how many of your personal things you’ll need to move out of the way, including fragile items that may be jarred loose during the project.
8. Utility locations
Point out the location of all your utility controls are – water, gas, and electrical. They’re not visible in some homes. Also, make sure you discuss appliances or circuits that can’t be shut off.
9. Will there be a contract?
Contracts are necessary because they ensure that obligations get met. Find someone in the London area with the experience for the job you have and who can provide a thorough, easy-to-understand contract.
10. What’s the process for additional work?
If additional work is needed, ask how that will get accomplished. Is there an hourly rate set of overages, or a cap set on overage costs? It’s important to find out ahead of time.
Here at Alair Homes London, we are confident that if you cover these topics with your contractor, your home renovation will go as painless and smooth as possible.
